To Flourish or to Perish by – Pastor Jefferson Spencer

The writer of Psalm 1 provides us with a sharp contrast between the life and soul of a person who has a vibrant relationship with God and the person who doesn’t.

The Psalm begins with a promise and the means by which the promise is fulfilled. The writer then provides his readers with a further contrast, this time between the rewards for obedience and the consequences for disobedience.

The promise

• Good fortune 

• prosperity  

• Divine provision.

The Means by which the promise is realized.

1) Avoid Unfavorable Environments

• Don’t associate or indulge in any way with persons who are inclined to do wicked deeds.

2) The alternative favourable environment 

• A devoted love for God as demonstrated by the quality time being spent in His word, so as to be instructed on the ways of living, so as to please Him.

The benefits

• A life lived in fulfilment of the purposes of God. 

• A life of continual growth and development.

• A life of contentment and value to others.

The consequences of disobedience

• A life of hopelessness, lacking purpose and direction.

• A life of instability and unproductivity.

• Ultimate separation from a Holy God in eternity.

Application

In a world where there is so much selfishness and greed. A world that is characterized by materialism and a get rich quick mentality, there is always the temptation to do that which is wrong.

Believers are reminded that God is our source and once we live in obedience to His ways He will take care of us. We must drawer closer to God and avoid temptation and wrongdoing. Our lives must be a testimony of hope of a better life, in Christ, for the unsaved.

Scripture references

 Deuteronomy 28:1-14

 Psalm 112

 Romans 8:32

 Ephesians 3:20

– Pastor Jefferson Spencer